3M introduces molecular pathogen detection system

Dec. 12, 2011
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by Keith Nunes

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ST. PAUL, MINN. — 3M has introduced its Molecular Detection System, which the company said is a fast, accurate and easy-to-use method for detecting pathogens like Salmonella, E. coli O157:H7 and Listeria.

The system uses isothermal DNA amplification and bioluminescence detection.

The Molecular Detection System works by targeting and amplifying nucleic acid in enriched samples. The system has been evaluated with a variety of food types, including produce, meats, processed foods, pet food and food-processing-related environmental samples, according to the company.

“Leveraging 3M’s record of innovation, including close collaboration with our customers, we believe we’ve found a transformational solution that makes for a faster and simpler way of accurately detecting pathogens,” said Francine Savage, vice-president and general manager for 3M Food Safety. “Just as 3M Petrifilm Plates succeeded by melding sophistication with simplicity, the 3M Molecular Detection System optimizes technicians’ time and productivity, improving bottom lines, protecting brands and ensuring public health.”

As part of the system’s platform, pathogen-specific assays will be sold as test kits. Each test kit uses the same software interface and DNA extraction protocol for testing between one and 96 samples per run. Assays for Salmonella, E. coli O157 and E. coli O)157:H7 and Listeria are available. A test for Listeria monocytogenes is planned to be introduced in early 2012, according to 3M.

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